Michael Devine Reports: Celebrating Autumn with Apple Raisin Crumbles

I find the grievous transition from the carefree days of summer to the structured days of autumn is softened (and sweetened) by the first apples of the season. Judging by the trees in the orchards that surround the village it looks like it’s going to be a bumper crop this year. This handy dessert is an easy and delicious way to serve the season's gems.

To make: Combine ingredients in a heavy bottom saucepan, cover and cook over medium low heat until very soft. About the consistency of thick applesauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Spray eight ramekins with cooking spray and set aside. Peel, core and dice the remaining two apples. Evenly distribute compote between the ramekins. Evenly apportion the diced apple on top of the compote in each of the dishes and top with chilled crumble mixture.